What is the essay’s thesis? Is it explicit or implied? How could the thesis be stated more effectively? Does it have a Rogerian thesis, which states the opposing view first and then the author’s argument and position? Is the Rogerian theory used in the essay? Does the essay mention the opposing viewpoint along with an unbiased restatement of that view and enough detail to show the reader both sides of the issue? If not, what does the author need to add for support?

What purpose does the essay serve—to inform, to evaluate, to persuade readers to accept a viewpoint, to eliminate misconceptions, or to call them to action?

What are the main points supporting the thesis? List the points. Is each supporting point developed sufficiently in the body paragraphs? If not, where is more support needed? Which points, subject, or paragraphs need more support?

Does the essay have Logos? Is it a sound, reasonable, logical argument, which is supported by facts, statistics etc.? If not, what does the author need to add?

Does the essay use Pathos? Do they use it well and is it effective? Or over-the-top? Is it appropriate for the audience? If not, what do they need to do?

Does the essay show Ethos? Is the author reliable and credible? If not, tell the author what they need to add into their essay or take out, which help make them more credible.

Does each paragraph have a topic sentence that tells the reader what point will be talked about next. If not, point out where they were weak and offer a suggestion.

Where would signal devices (also, likewise, in contrast) make it easier to see similarities and differences between the subjects being discussed?

Are there transitions within the topic sentences? Are they redundant or confusing? If so, where and how should they fix them?

What is the tone? Does the essay come off as condescending, sexist, or racist? If so, which sentences and words convey this tone? Offer suggestions on how to adjust the tone of the essay.

Could the Introduction or Conclusion paragraphs be strengthened? If so, what is your suggestion? Is there an anecdote, fact, or statistic in the paper that could be moved to the conclusion?

Did you notice glaring misspellings, misplaced modifiers, fragments, run-ons, or punctuation mistakes? If so, circle them on their essay.

What are some of the strengths of this essay? What did this author do well?